Tara Bergeron
Welcome, and thanks for stopping by my page! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I practice both via telehealth and in-person. I began working in the helping field in 2007, while attending Eastern Connecticut State University and raising my amazing daughters.
Without challenging conversations, therapy feels like small talk in a convenience store.
Throughout the years, I held a number of human services roles in management and administration. My favorite role, however, is working as a counselor with courageous, resilient, unique people like you. I am here to listen, to partner with and accompany you every step on your way towards your personal goals for wellness, wholeness, and balance. I am the sole counselor at my practice, Safe Space Counseling, and use Grow Therapy to help minimize insurance nightmares and keep my focus where it should be - on the challenges and triumphs of human beings.
First session
Our first session together will largely focus on the symptoms you currently experience. This is called an assessment, and to be 100% honest, it's likely the least enjoyable session we will ever have together. After the assessment is complete, in our second and subsequent sessions, we will truly begin to get to know one another and figure out the best ways to move forward toward the "you" under the symptoms...You remember that person? He/she/they is still here...Just waiting to be rediscovered.
Strengths
I believe my strengths lie in my compassion, person-first style, and ability to gently challenge your mind and heart. I know first-hand that without compassion, therapy feels unsafe and unsupportive. Without gentle but challenging conversations, therapy feels like harsh small-talk in a convenience store. I invite you to go deeper as we create a place that feels safe and comfortable for you. My goal is for therapy to be the one place where you do not apologize for how you feel, who you are, or what you want. I am a strong ally for all humans marginalized and misunderstood by others and I work mindfully to provide affirming care to all "flavors" of person.
Ideal clients
I currently work with adults in all life-stages. If you value a counselor who is 100% present in sessions, has a warm demeanor, and is patient with your fast or slow pace, we will be a great fit. Clients who benefit from , and enjoy, debate and deep-dive discussions report that I am "a good fit" for them.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I invite you to think about the way that you think. Join with me as we look at how thoughts lead to feelings, and feelings lead to choices. CBT is the #1 evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety. This method of psychotherapy makes "good common-sense" to most people and can help you begin to easily understand your challenges with greater nuance. CBT is the bedrock upon which many people build a new life, and I have worked with this modality for 6 years.
Compassion-Focused
Often referred to as "loving kindness," CFT strives to increase your insight and understanding toward yourself and others. CFT helps to quiet embarrassment and process shame, as well as negative/over-critical internal voices. CFT incorporates concepts from CBT, Buddhism, and human evolution. I have 6 years' experience with this modality.
Feminist
Feminist Therapy...Definitely not just for straight, white women! This modality acknowledges the cultural, social, and relational inequities you face each and every day. Feminist Therapy strives to view personal challenges through a wider-lens. I have worked with Feminist Therapy for 6 years.
Daialectical Behavior (DBT)
We can use DBT to help regulate your emotional state, feel more present in the moment, and improve your ability to tolerate uncomfortable feelings. DBT is the #1 recommended treatment modality for individuals with personality disorders or long-term problems in relationships. I have worked with DBT for 6 years.
EMDR
EMDR is the #1 evidence-based treatment for the suffering associated with traumatic stress. Horrifying memories, feeling unsafe and afraid much of the time, unexplained feelings of guilt or shame, and nightmares...Since my magic wand is in the shop, let's utilize scientifically-tested tools to process distressing memories in a new and different way...EMDR helps you feel safer, and to live in TODAY instead of in your past. I am currently in the certification process, but am fully trained.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions136 Main St, Killingly, CT 06239, 2'nd Floor inside The Wholistic Collective
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Licensed in
- ConnecticutLicense 58.013161